Mixed views on Khan’s position as PNM chairman

As Khan faced the courts on Wednesday, there were mixed views within his party on whether he should relinquish the position of chairman, which he has held since 2003 — or whether he should retain the post while his bribery charges are pending.

Some party officials argued that a man was innocent until proven guilty. They pointed to the fact that Basdeo Panday, who was charged under the Integrity in Public Life Act, has remained as political leader of his party when he was charged, and now holds the senior position of chairman (just like Khan) even though he is before the courts. "You cannot assume a man is guilty and strip him," one official contended, arguing that it should be Khan’s decision to step down or remain as chairman.

However, other officials stated that it was one thing for Dansam Dhansook to make allegations against Khan, but they said that this had now gone beyond mere allegations.

"A competent authority of the State — the police — and an independent judicial institution — the Director of Public Prosecutions — have investigated both of Dhansook’s allegations and Khan’s explanations and have found that he still has a serious case to answer.